Z'Tejas Grill

This Southwestern grill originated in Austin, Texas, and first expanded in 1991 with a second location in Scottsdale. Since then, it’s spread throughout the Valley to Phoenix, Tempe, and Chandler, serving it’s version of Tex-Mex with a few outside influences. Starters include catfish beignets with cornmeal-crusted catfish and jalapeno tartar sauce as well as raw ahi chipotle citrus bites, a ceviche with mango, jicama, and avocado wasabi aioli above crispy tostada rounds. But what Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill does best is grill. From seasoned chicken topped with nopalitos salad to green chile barbacoa, the meat entrées are outstanding. Other mouthwatering options include five-cheese macaroni with achiote chicken and toasted bacon gratin, grilled ruby trout salad with spicy walnuts and goat cheese, and smoked chicken chile relleno with pecans, apricots, raisins, and Jack cheese. The best time to hit up this chain is during happy hour, when a small plate of seared sesame ahi tuna, normally over $20, can be had for a mere $6.